Understanding the Risks of Wood Roofs: What Insurance Carriers Need You to Know

By: Danny McGinnis, CAPI, CPRIA

Wood roofs, known for their aesthetic appeal and natural beauty, have long been a popular choice for homeowners seeking a classic, rustic look. However, while they add charm and character to a property, wood roofs also come with a set of unique challenges that insurance carriers often view with concern. In this blog post, we'll examine the reasons behind these concerns and what homeowners can do to mitigate the risks.

The Appeal of Wood Roofs

Wood roofs offer several advantages:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Wood shingles and shakes provide a timeless, natural look that enhances the architectural style of many homes.
• Insulation Properties: Wood is a natural insulator, which can help with energy efficiency.
• Durability: When properly maintained, wood roofs can last for several decades.

Despite these benefits, wood roofs are often viewed warily by insurance carriers due to several inherent risks.

Key Concerns for Insurance Carriers

• Weather Resistance
• Moisture Damage: Wood roofs are vulnerable to water damage, which can lead to rot, mold, and mildew if not properly maintained.
• Storm Damage: Severe weather events, including heavy rain, hail, and high winds, can cause significant damage to wood roofs, leading to costly repairs.

• Maintenance Requirements
• Ongoing Upkeep: Wood roofs require regular maintenance, including cleaning, sealing, and replacing damaged shingles, to ensure their longevity and performance.

• Fire Hazard
• Combustibility: Wood is highly flammable, making wood roofs more susceptible to catching fire from external sources such as wildfires, lightning strikes, and even fireworks.
• Regulations: In areas prone to wildfires, local building codes may have strict regulations or even bans on wood roofing materials.

• Pest Infestation
• Attracting Insects: Wood roofs can attract pests such as termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles, which can compromise the structural integrity of the roof.
• Animal Damage: Birds and other animals may also cause damage as they nest or search for food.

• Cost of Repairs : Repairing or replacing wood shake roofs can be more expensive than other types of roofs. This higher cost can make claims more expensive for the insurer.

Mitigating the Risks

Homeowners with wood roofs can take several steps to reduce the associated risks and potentially improve their insurance coverage options:

• Consider Alternative Materials
• If you're in an area with high wildfire risk or other extreme weather conditions, consider replacing a wood roof with more fire-resistant materials such as metal, tile, or asphalt shingles designed to mimic the look of wood.
• For homeowners looking to maintain the look of wood without the associated risks, synthetic wood roofs are an excellent option.  Companies like DaVinci and CeDur offer fire-resistant synthetic shingles that mimic the appearance of natural wood while providing enhanced durability and lower maintenance requirements. 

• Fire-Resistant Treatments
• Apply fire-retardant treatments to wood shingles to enhance their resistance to fire. Ensure that the treatments are up-to-date and comply with local building codes.

• Regular Inspections and Maintenance
• Schedule regular roof inspections to identify and address any signs of damage or wear. Promptly replace any damaged or deteriorated shingles.
• Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water accumulation and reduce the risk of moisture damage.

• Pest Control
• Implement pest control measures to protect the roof from insects and animals. Consider professional pest control services for ongoing protection.

Consult Your Insurance Agent

• Work closely with your insurance agent to understand specific requirements and recommendations they might have. They can provide guidance on additional measures to reduce risk and potentially lower your premiums.
• Always keep your insurance agent informed about any significant changes to your property, including roof replacements.  A newer, more resilient roof can potentially qualify you for premium credits, reducing your overall insurance costs.  Your agent can guide you through the process and ensure you receive all applicable discounts. 

Conclusion

While wood roofs offer undeniable beauty and charm, they come with a set of risks that insurance carriers take seriously. By understanding these concerns and taking proactive steps to mitigate them, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a wood roof while maintaining adequate insurance coverage. 

As a private client advisor at BCU Risk Advisors, my goal is to help you navigate these complexities and ensure you have the best possible coverage for your unique needs. If you have any questions about your insurance options or need assistance with a thorough review of your current policy, feel free to reach out.

We're here to help you stay protected and prepared.